Sentinel Dome & Taft Point
8,122 ft | 1 trails | California
8,122 ft
1 routes
Easy
About Sentinel Dome & Taft Point
This easy 5-mile loop combines two of Yosemite's most spectacular viewpoints: Sentinel Dome's 360-degree panorama and Taft Point's vertigo-inducing cliff edge. Both accessible from the same trailhead on Glacier Point Road, these short hikes deliver world-class views with minimal effort.
Sentinel Dome (8,122 ft) offers one of Yosemite's best panoramic views—see Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra in one sweep. Taft Point features a sheer 3,000-foot drop to Yosemite Valley floor and the dramatic Fissures, deep cracks in the granite cliff edge.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check recent reports on AllTrails or NE Trail Conditions before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do both Sentinel Dome and Taft Point in one hike?
Absolutely! The 5-mile loop connects both, taking 2.5-3 hours. Or do them separately: Sentinel Dome is 2.2 miles round trip, Taft Point is 2.2 miles round trip. Most people do the loop to see both spectacular viewpoints in one outing.
Which is better for sunset: Sentinel Dome or Taft Point?
Sentinel Dome is THE best sunset spot in Yosemite! 360-degree views mean you see sunset colors in all directions, including Half Dome glowing orange. Taft Point faces east so you see shadow progression rather than direct sunset. Many photographers hike to Sentinel Dome specifically for sunset.
Is Taft Point dangerous?
Taft Point has NO railings at the cliff edge, which drops 3,000 feet straight down. It's safe if you're careful and stay back from the edge. Not recommended for young children or those with fear of heights. The Fissures (narrow cracks in the rock) are particularly exposed.
When is Glacier Point Road open?
Typically late May/early June through October/November, weather dependent. Check Yosemite road conditions before visiting. When closed, these trails are inaccessible except by skiing/snowshoeing from Badger Pass (16+ miles round trip).
Best Time to Visit
spring
March - May
Muddy trails, snow at higher elevations, stream crossings high
summer
June - August
Best hiking conditions, afternoon thunderstorms possible
fall
September - November
Peak foliage mid-September to mid-October, cooler temperatures
winter
December - February
Severe alpine conditions, high winds, extreme cold
Winter Gear Checklist
- Microspikes/crampons
- Snowshoes
- Winter layers
- Emergency bivy
Tip: Winter hiking above treeline requires mountaineering experience.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- Extreme cold
- High winds
- Ice on trails
- Short daylight
- Avalanche risk
Turn-Around Time
1:00 PM (2:00 PM summer)
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Sentinel Dome & Taft Point. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Peak Bagging Tip
Half Dome is only 4.8 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!